Academic probation is when a student receives a notice for poor academic performance and grades. If the grades are not improved, the student could face academic dismissal which means the individual is no longer considered a student at the college. Understanding what this means and how to file an appeal are essential to taking the right steps to get back on track.
What is Academic Dismissal?
Academic dismissal is when a student has a history of poor grades and has been unable to improve their academic performance after warnings or being placed on academic probation. The student will be unable to enroll in new classes, asked to leave their dorm, and will no longer be considered a student of that college.
Academic dismissal can result in other consequences including loss of financial aid. If a student received a grant or scholarship that required them to graduate, the individual could also be on the hook for paying that money back.
Reasons for Academic Dismissal
Each school has its own standard for academic performance and a set minimum overall GPA the student has to meet to remain in good standing. Dropping below this minimum GPA for a semester can result in the individual receiving a warning that they are on academic probation. However, if the student does not improve their grades in the following semester(s), they can receive an academic dismissal.
The two most common reasons for an academic dismissal are that:
- The student’s GPA dropped below 2.0 (or other minimum GPA set by the college) for too long.
- Or, the student is not taking or earning enough credits per semester.
Can You Appeal an Academic Dismissal?
An academic dismissal is stressful, but it isn’t the end of the world. There are avenues available to students who receive this letter – one of which is an appeal. Students are invited to appeal these notices and they may be granted a reprieve.
Those interested in appealing an academic dismissal should:
1. Reflect on What Caused the Poor Grades
Before anything else, students should reflect on why they failed to meet the academic standards put forth by the college. This can deliver some great insight into the next steps and help students make the right decision going forward regarding their education.
2. Develop a Strong Case
A single sentence or excuse isn’t going to reverse an academic dismissal. Students will have to go armed with a sincere, strong case in order to try to continue to remain at the school. Understanding you fell behind in your classes will make all the difference here.
If you find you need to build a case, you need to first detail the circumstances you faced. Perhaps you had a death in the family, or you were dealing with a mental health concern. If there are reasons behind your poor grades, state them. And if you have proof, such as a letter from a doctor or the mental health center at your college, present them during your appeal. Colleges can work with you, and the earlier you bring these issues to their attention, the better.
You should also devise a strategy for the future. How do you plan to improve your grades and academic performance going forward?
3. Be Polite
Going on the defensive, yelling, getting angry, or crying likely won’t help your appeal. You should always remain professional and polite. Thank them for their time and be understanding of the situation. This will go a long way in showing you understand the consequences of an academic dismissal.
What Else Should You Do if You Are Dismissed from a College for Bad Grades?
If your appeal fails or you decide not to appeal, you do have other options. Students in this position should:
1. Consider if College is For You
College isn’t for everyone. If you tried and discovered it’s not for you, that’s perfectly okay! There are plenty of career options out there that don’t require a college degree. You may even find that higher education isn’t’ for you right now, but it may be a great avenue for the future.
2. Attend a Community College or Other School
Just because you were dismissed from one college doesn’t mean you’re barred from attending all other schools. You can absolutely apply to a different college or even attend community college to continue your education. This can be a fantastic way to overcome this adversity.
3. Create a Strategy for Improving Your Approach to Learning
Of course, you need to come up with a plan for avoiding academic probation and dismissal in the future. Understanding where you went wrong is a good start, but you should also consider strategies and tactics you can employ going forward. What can you do to improve your study habits? Consider working with a study group or tutor to better understand your coursework.
4. Reapply in a Year
Did you know that an academic dismissal doesn’t completely bar you from attending the college in the future? You can actually reapply to that exact same school in a year or more. Students interested in taking this route should consider going to another college or community college to show they can increase their grades first.
Academic dismissal can be extremely scary and stressful, but students should know they have options. If you are interested in continuing your education at that particular college, you should absolutely appeal it with a strong case and professional demeanor. By creating a strategy now, you can turn your education around.
Choosing the right school can absolutely have an impact on your grades. With College Match, we make it easy to discover colleges and universities across the United States that meet your needs, wants, goals, and achievements. Get started today for free.
